Your Sedentary Lifestyle May Trigger Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer

The colorectal area includes the colon (large intestine) and the rectum. Swallowed food typically goes to the small intestine, where it is absorbed. Digested food passes from the intestines to the colon.

Water and food waste salts are absorbed in the colon, leaving just waste, often known as feces. The feces will proceed to the rectum, the final 15 cm of the digestive tract, where it will be expelled via the anus.

Colorectal cancer is the uncontrolled development of cells in the colon and rectum. It may begin as a polyp, which is an abnormal tissue that forms on the colon or rectal wall. Polyps can progress to cancer if not treated properly.

If polyps are found through screening, they can be surgically removed promptly. Screening is also effective at detecting colorectal cancer in its early stages. Unfortunately, ignoring symptoms results in cancer being detected at an advanced stage.

Common symptoms

Colorectal cancer does not present noticeable signs in its early stages. Therefore, we encourage regular screening, especially when the following situations occur:

• Changes to the colon. For example, diarrhea, constipation, or stool narrowing.
• Bloody stools that can be vivid red or blackish red.
• Stomach cramps, discomfort, or persistent bloating.
• Weight loss that is severe and rapid.
• Fatigue and exhaustion even with adequate rest.
• Having anemia that is caused by prolonged bleeding, which results in weariness, weakness, and pallor.

Risk factors

The following are risk factors for developing colorectal cancer.

• Age. The risk of colorectal cancer rises with age. This cancer is more likely to develop after the age of 50.
• Family. If there is a family history of colorectal cancer or genetic illnesses such Lynch syndrome and FAP, the risk rises.
• History. Colorectal cancer survivors and those who have had intestinal polyps are at a significant risk of recurrence.
• Lifestyle. Consuming a lot and/or regularly processed meat, a lack of dietary fiber, sedentary lifestyle, obesity, smoking, and drinking alcohol all raise the risk.

Diabetics are also at an increased risk of developing the condition. Pay attention to your everyday sugar intake. If you enjoy sweet foods, exercise consistently and with increasing intensity.

Diagnosis and treatments

Diagnostic methods for colorectal cancer include physical tests, imaging (including ultrasound, CT scan, and MRI), examination of the inside of the colon (colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy), biopsy (tissue sampling), and molecular testing.

Some types of screening carried out include:

1. Stool examination

Includes occult blood tests and detection of cancer cells in the patient's stool. This examination can be carried out every 5–10 years with an annual occult blood test.

2. Sigmoidoscopy

In this examination, a thin tube with a camera will be inserted from the anus to the patient's colon. Sigmoidoscopy can also be done every 5–10 years with annual occult blood tests.

3. Colonoscopy

Almost the same as a sigmoidoscopy, the colonoscope is longer, so it can see the colon more thoroughly. You can have a colonoscopy every 10 years.

4. Virtual colonoscopy (CT colonography)

This colonoscopy uses a CT-scan machine. Therefore, an image of the patient's entire colon can be viewed and analyzed. This colonoscopy can be done every 5 years.

Treatment is given based on the progress of the cancer and the patient's medical records. Early detection will produce better treatment results.

Colorectal cancer treatment options include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. This treatment typically includes doctors from multiple specialties (specialists). They will collaborate to determine the most appropriate therapy.

Aside from medical treatment, colorectal cancer patients require emotional support. Proper support from family and others will help the patient's quality of life.

Prevention

Colorectal cancer, which was once extremely rare, is now one of the world's four deadliest cancers. This malignancy claims the lives of about 900,000 people annually.

According to a study, colorectal cancer cases occur often in both developed and developing countries. Culture, traditions, eating habits, and everyday activities all impact colon and rectal health.

Colorectal cancer can be prevented. Let's ask ourselves. Is our lifestyle healthy? Have we been active and diligent in exercising? Have we met our daily fiber needs?

If "no" dominates the answer, start doing these things to prevent colorectal cancer!

• Eat nutritious food. Increase vegetables and fruit.
• Avoid smoking in any form.
• Adopt an active life. Avoid lying down too much.
• Limit alcohol consumption in any form.
• Safeguard yourself from exposure to environmental risk factors. For example, radiation from dangerous chemicals.

Love your gut by improving your lifestyle. If you have questions regarding colorectal cancer, immediately click on WhatsApp or visit GWS Medika Clinic, health clinic in Jakarta.